Sikkim Tunnel Collapse Traps 12 Workers; Assam Floods Affect Over 1.7 Lakh People

A landslide in Sikkim’s Namchi district on Monday trapped around 12 workers inside an under-construction road tunnel, while severe flooding in Assam has affected more than 1.7 lakh people across 12 districts, prompting large-scale rescue and relief operations in both states.

According to officials, the landslide blocked the entrance to the Samardung tunnel, leaving the workers stranded inside. Authorities suspect a gas leak, believed to have been triggered by the landslide, which has significantly hampered rescue efforts.

Teams from the National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), State Disaster Response Force (SDRF), police and fire services have been deployed at the site. Rescue personnel are using gas masks to reach the trapped workers, while ambulances remain stationed nearby. Reports said several rescuers lost consciousness while attempting to enter the tunnel due to the suspected gas leak.

The tunnel is being constructed as part of a national highway project, and authorities are continuing efforts to safely evacuate the trapped workers.

Meanwhile, Assam is battling a worsening flood situation after incessant rainfall inundated vast areas of the state. According to official estimates, over 1.7 lakh people have been affected in 12 districts, 30 revenue circles, and 580 villages.

More than 10,362 hectares of agricultural land have been submerged, causing widespread crop damage. The worst-hit districts include Sivasagar, Charaideo and Jorhat.

Heavy overnight rainfall also triggered flash floods in several parts of Guwahati, flooding residential areas and disrupting normal life. Rail services have been affected in some locations after floodwaters submerged railway tracks.

Officials attributed the worsening situation to heavy runoff from the Meghalaya hills and the rising water level of the Basistha River.

In response, the Indian Army has launched ‘Operation Jal Rahat’ in coordination with the Assam Rifles to assist in rescue and relief operations. The NDRF has also deployed 24 boats in Sivasagar to evacuate stranded residents.

Assam Chief Minister Himanta Biswa Sarma said the state government is closely monitoring the situation and that relief operations are continuing in all flood-affected districts.